Ducati 851 SP (1989)

Ducati 851 SP (1989)

The Ducati 851 SP: a bike that defied convention and expectations in its era. This potent 90LT twin cylinder engine, featuring desmodromic 4 valves per cylinder and a DOHC configuration, belies its relatively modest capacity with a character that’s at once raw and refined.

Its smooth, powerful delivery is the perfect accompaniment to a riding experience that demands finesse and control. The Ducati 851 SP rewards those who treat it with respect, coaxing out hidden reserves of performance from its robust engine.

As you carve through corners and accelerate down straights, the 851 SP’s weight distribution and precision handling become increasingly apparent, making it an absolute joy to ride. With its razor-sharp reflexes and intuitive ergonomics, this bike is a masterclass in motorcycling dynamics. It’s clear that the Ducati 851 SP is more than just a machine – it’s an extension of the rider, a true partner in the pursuit of speed and adrenaline.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, 90Ltwin cylinder, DOHC, desmodromic 4 valves per cylinder, belt driven
Engine Capacity851 cc / 51.9 cu in
Max Power89.7 kw / 122 hp
Fuel Tank Capacity5.3 US gallons / 20.0 L
Seat Height29.9 inches / 760 mm
Ducati 851 SP (1989)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelDucati 851 SP
Year1989

Engine

Engine TypeFour stroke, 90Ltwin cylinder, DOHC, desmodromic 4 valves per cylinder, belt driven
Displacement851 cc / 51.9 cu in
Bore x Stroke92 x 64 mm
Compression Ratio11.5:1
Max Horsepower89.7 kw / 122 hp
Engine Management SystemWeber I.A.W. CPU P7 electronic fuel injection. 2 x 50mm throttle bodies
Cooling SystemLiquid cooled

Performance

Top Speed250 km/h / 155 mph

Transmission

ClutchDry,multiplate
Gearbox6 Speed
Primary Drive Ratio2:1 (31/62)
Gear Ratios1st 2.466 / 2nd 1.765 / 3rd 1.400 / 4th 1.182 / 5th 1.043 / 6th 0.958:1
Final DriveChain

Electrical & Electronics System

Battery12V 16Ah
StarterElectric

Chassis & Suspension

Frame TypeTubular steel
Front SuspensionMarzocchi M1R upside-down fork with rebound compression damping adjustable
Rear Suspensionhlins single shock with preload and damping adjust

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size120/70 x 17
Rear Tire Size180/55 x 17
Front Brakes2 x 320 mm Disc, 4 piston calipers
Rear BrakesSingle 245 mm disc, 2 piston caliper

Dimension & Weights

Overall Length2000 mm / 78.7 in
Overall Width670 mm / 26.4 in
Overall Height1120 mm / 44.1 in
Seat Height29.9 inches / 760 mm
Wheelbase56.3 inches / 1430 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity5.3 US gallons / 20.0 L
Dry Weight188 kg / 414 lbs

Features

  • Four-stroke engine
  • 90L twin cylinder
  • DOHC
  • Desmodromic valve actuation
  • 4 valves per cylinder
  • Belt driven
  • High performance V-twin exhaust
  • Hand-built construction
  • Lightweight design
  • Competitive power and torque output
  • Devastating acceleration out of corners
  • Fast handling abilities on road and track
  • Torque advantage over multi-cylinder engines
  • Bolt-on injection kit
  • DOHC configuration
Ducati 851 SP (1989)

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